The American Balint Society (ABS)

The American Balint Society is a supportive and collaborative organization of clinicians and teachers whose common values are promoted through a group process of exploration and training called the Balint group. The goal of the Balint group experience is for the participants to transform uncertainty, confusion, and difficulty in the doctor-patient relationship into understanding and meaning that nurture a more therapeutic alliance between clinician and patient. We appreciate the use of intellect, emotion, empathy and self-reflection in the doctor's work and we value the therapeutic potential of the clinician-patient relationship.

The ABS was born in May 1990, formed by those medical educators convened at a Balint theme day at the annual meeting of the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine in Seattle, Washington. Until that time, a number of faculty in Family Medicine programs throughout the US had been leading Balint groups autonomously, and according to their own understandings of the teachings of Michael and Enid Balint. Eighty-five interested people participated in this maiden effort, resulting in the election of officers and a governing council that were charged with the development of this organization along lines similar to the Balint Societies that existed in England and many other countries.

Mission:
The American Balint Society strives to:
• Develop & Support professionals who lead or are members of Balint groups
• Promote & Encourage increased participation in Balint group work
• Teach & Study the nature, use and effectiveness of Balint groups

Vision:
The vision of the American Balint Society is for relationships of profound trust, such as those between physicians and patients, to grow in respect and healing power. Utilizing the empathy fostered through creative engagement with trusted peers in a safe environment, clinicians can improve their understanding of both themselves and others, so that patients and clients are increasingly heard, supported and empowered to become healthier and happier.

Core Values:
• Authenticity
• Collective Wisdom
• Compassion
• Empathy
• Hope
• Lifelong Learning
• Reflection